HS Code 1520
Crude Glycerol and Glycerol Waters
HS code 1520 covers crude glycerol, glycerol waters, and glycerol lyes, typically containing less than 95% glycerol by weight, before high-level purification.
HS Code 1520 — Crude Glycerol and Glycerol Waters
This code covers crude glycerol, a byproduct of soap making or biodiesel production. It is a sweet-tasting, viscous liquid used as a precursor for refined glycerin, which then goes into cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products.
What's included
- Crude glycerin
- Glycerol lyes
- Glycerol waters from fat splitting
What's excluded
- Refined glycerol (95%+ purity) → use
2905(Glycerol with a purity of 95% or more is classified as a separate chemical compound.)
Common examples
- Crude 80% glycerin from biodiesel plant
- Glycerol lyes from soap manufacturing
- Unrefined vegetable glycerol
Frequently asked questions
At what purity does glycerol leave 1520?
Once glycerol reaches a purity of 95% or more (calculated on the weight of the dry product), it must be classified under 2905.45.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0% - 6.5%
- Documentation: A certificate of analysis showing the glycerol percentage is mandatory to justify 1520 vs 2905.
- Typical shipping mode: Bulk
- Top exporters: Brazil, Germany, Indonesia
- Top importers: China, Netherlands, United States
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
1520 is for industrial crude grades; pharmaceutical grade 'pure' glycerin belongs in Chapter 29.
Related HS codes
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